Mangalore’s cuisine is a flavorful blend of coastal spices, coconut-rich curries, and traditional South Indian staples. From fiery seafood dishes to soft neer dosa and aromatic ghee roasts, every bite tells the story of the region’s heritage and culinary pride.
1. Neer Dosa with Fish Curry at Machali
Why visit: This soft, lacy rice pancake is a Mangalorean staple, best enjoyed with spicy, tangy fish curry at the ever-popular Machali.
Highlights: – Clean, authentic flavors – Affordable and filling – Local favorite with consistent quality
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM & 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹300–₹500 per person
2. Chicken Ghee Roast at Shetty Lunch Home
Why visit: A fiery, aromatic dish made with slow-roasted spices and clarified butter, this is a must for spice lovers.
Highlights: – Rich, deep flavor – Served with roti or rice – Signature Mangalorean preparation
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM & 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹300–₹500 per person
3. Prawn Sukka at Giri Manja’s
Why visit: This dry prawn dish, stir-fried with coconut and red chili, is a seafood lover’s dream.
Highlights: – Local cooking style – Fresh seafood – Rustic, hole-in-the-wall ambiance
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Entry: ₹250–₹400 per person
4. Mangalorean Thali at Kudla Restaurant
Why visit: For those who want to taste a bit of everything, the thali offers multiple curries, vegetables, rice, and sweets.
Highlights: – Balanced meal with regional specialties – Ambience with coastal décor – Great value for variety
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹400–₹600 per person
5. Kori Rotti at Maharaja Restaurant
Why visit: A traditional dish of spicy chicken curry served with crisp rice wafers, Kori Rotti is unique to this region.
Highlights: – Crunchy and spicy combination – Generous portions – Bold, satisfying flavors
Timing: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹300–₹500 per person
6. Banana Podi at Taj Mahal Café
Why visit: A beloved breakfast item made from raw banana slices coated in batter and deep-fried until crisp.
Highlights: – Crunchy, savory snack – Best with filter coffee – Available early morning
Timing: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹200 per person
7. Idli-Vada Combo at Janatha Deluxe
Why visit: This classic South Indian breakfast dish is served fresh and fluffy, with spicy chutney and sambar.
Highlights: – Quick service and affordable – Local-style preparation – Perfect morning start
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹250 per person
8. Fish Tawa Fry at Hotel Narayana
Why visit: Crisp on the outside and juicy inside, this shallow-fried fish is simple, bold, and packed with flavor.
Highlights: – Served with rice or chapati – Home-style, no-frills eatery – Fresh catch daily
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Entry: ₹200–₹350 per person
9. Pathrode at Sagar Ratna
Why visit: A unique vegetarian dish made from colocasia leaves and spiced rice paste, steamed or fried to perfection.
Highlights: – Rare to find outside Karnataka – Nutritious and flavorful – Ideal for curious foodies
Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹200–₹400 per person
10. Filter Coffee at Ideal Café
Why visit: End your food journey with a strong, frothy South Indian filter coffee in a classic café setting.
Highlights: – Bold aroma and flavor – Inexpensive and satisfying – Local favorite for decades
Timing: 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry: ₹30–₹50 per cup
Feature Image:- Photo by amirali mirhashemian on Unsplash
